Atoms to Mixtures Exploration Begins

Grade 9 Science Understanding the Building Blocks of Matter From Atoms to Complex Molecules

Journey from Macro to Micro

What Do You Already Know?

Think about what you know about atoms Have you heard of molecules before? What makes up the things around us?

Meet the Atom: The Smallest Building Block

Contains three main particles Protons (positive charge) in the nucleus Neutrons (no charge) in the nucleus Electrons (negative charge) orbit around nucleus

From Atoms to Molecules and Compounds

{"left":"Molecules: Two or more atoms bonded together (like O₂ oxygen gas)\nCompounds: Molecules made of different types of atoms (like H₂O water)","right":"Chemical bonds hold atoms together\nExamples help us understand the differences"}

Special Molecules: Amino Acids

Complex molecules that contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen Building blocks of proteins in living things Essential for all life on Earth Connect physical science to life science

Sorting Challenge: Can You Categorize?

Work in groups of 3 Sort your model cards into four categories Atoms, Molecules, Compounds, Amino Acids Record one example of each on your whiteboard Be ready to explain your reasoning!

Key Takeaway

Everything around us is made of atoms that combine in different ways to create the incredible diversity of matter we see in our world